Creating Sparkly Crystal Wedding Shoes For Your Big Day

Making your own crystal wedding shoes is a fun DIY project that can save you a lot of money. You can buy a cheap pair of satin wedges and glue on some Swarovski crystals or rhinestones. You'll need about 15-40 gross of crystals, a tray to hold them, adhesive, and tweezers or a plastic stick to apply them. You can also use a rhinestone picker tool to make the process easier. The whole project will take about 6-18 hours, depending on the area you're covering, and the results will be stunning!

Choosing the right adhesive

Type of Adhesive

The most popular adhesive for attaching crystals to shoes is E6000, a strong glue that bonds well with various materials, including glass, wood, plastics, metal, fabric, and leather. It dries clear, making it ideal for this project. However, it is essential to work in a well-ventilated area when using E6000, as the fumes can be toxic. If you are concerned about the fumes, you can opt for Gem-Tac, which is another suitable adhesive for this project and seems to have a slower drying time.

Application Method

When applying the adhesive, use a syringe for more precise and controlled application. This will help you avoid using too much glue, which can make your shoes look cheap and messy. Additionally, dispensing tips, such as blunt-tip needles, can further assist in precise glue application, especially when working with smaller crystals.

Amount of Adhesive

It is crucial to use just enough adhesive to attach the crystals securely without applying too much. Apply a thin layer of glue to a very small area at a time, as the glue sets quickly. Work in sections, and use tweezers or a rhinestone picker tool to place the crystals onto the glue.

Drying Time

Allow the adhesive to dry completely before wearing your shoes. The recommended drying time for E6000 is 24 to 72 hours. This extended drying time ensures that the crystals are firmly attached and reduces the risk of them falling off.

Clean-up

After applying the crystals, clean up any residual or excess glue using acetone or rubbing alcohol. Test the cleaning solution on a few loose crystals first to ensure there are no adverse reactions. Avoid saturating the glued area, as it may dissolve the adhesive underneath.

Selecting the right crystals

Type of Crystals

The two most popular types of crystals used for wedding shoes are Rhinestones and Swarovski Crystals. Rhinestones are a more affordable option and can be found in various sizes and colours. On the other hand, Swarovski Crystals are known for their brilliance and sparkle. They are machine-cut stones with multiple facets and a foiled back that enhances their shine. While they may be more expensive, they will certainly add a touch of luxury to your wedding shoes.

Size of Crystals

The size of the crystals you choose will depend on the style and size of your shoes. A mix of at least two different sizes is recommended to ensure you can cover all the areas of your shoes evenly. For example, you can use larger crystals for the main areas of the shoe and smaller crystals for filling in the smaller spaces and curves. Standard crystal sizes used for wedding shoes include SS10, SS12, and SS20.

Amount of Crystals

The number of crystals you will need depends on the size and style of your shoes. As a general guideline, you should aim for approximately 15-40 gross of crystals (1 gross = 144 rhinestones). For a pair of white converse shoes, you may need around 1.5 packages of 1,440 crystals in SS20 size and half a package of 1,440 crystals in SS12 size.

Colour of Crystals

When selecting the colour of your crystals, consider the overall style and theme of your wedding. Clear crystals are a popular choice as they add sparkle and glamour to your shoes. However, you can also opt for coloured crystals to match your wedding colour scheme or add a unique touch. Some popular colour options include silver, gold, red, blue, and purple.

Quality of Crystals

It is essential to choose high-quality crystals that will last and not fall off your shoes easily. While you may be tempted to opt for cheaper options, investing in good-quality crystals will ensure a more durable and elegant finish. Look for well-known brands or reputable sellers when purchasing your crystals.

Placement of Crystals

Before you start gluing your crystals, decide on the pattern you want to create. You can go for a random placement of various crystal sizes or a more uniform look by applying them line by line. Start at the edge of the shoe or the back of the heel, and work your way around. Remember that a thin layer of adhesive is best, as it sets quickly, and you want to avoid getting glue on the tweezers or other tools you are using.

Deciding on a pattern

When it comes to deciding on a pattern, the choice is ultimately yours. You can opt for a uniform look by applying the crystals line by line, or go for a random pattern with various sizes placed haphazardly. If you want real precision, focus on the top and bottom edges, using different sizes or a single stone to create the borders.

If you're going for a random pattern, it's best to start at the back of the heel or the edge of the shoe. Apply a thin layer of adhesive to a small area—around 1cm x 2cm—and quickly place the crystals before the glue loses its tackiness. Use tweezers to pick up each crystal and let go just before it touches the glue to avoid getting glue on the tweezers. You can also use a plastic stick or tweezers to push and press the crystals into place.

For a uniform pattern, you might want to apply the adhesive line by line, following the natural contours of the shoe. This method ensures a more consistent look. Again, use tweezers to place each crystal and a plastic stick or tweezers to push them into place.

Using tweezers to place the crystals

Firstly, ensure that you have the necessary materials, including flatback crystals or rhinestones, a suitable adhesive such as E6000 or Gem Tac, a tray to hold the crystals, and a pair of tweezers. Before beginning, clean the surface of the shoe area you plan to cover.

Next, decide on your desired pattern. You can choose between a random or uniform arrangement. If you prefer a more consistent look, apply the crystals line by line. Otherwise, feel free to place them randomly for a unique design.

To begin, apply a thin layer of adhesive to a very small area of the shoe, as the glue sets quickly. Use the tweezers to pick up each crystal and place it onto the glue. A helpful technique is to release the crystal just before it touches the glue, preventing any glue from getting on the tweezers. However, even if glue does get on the tweezers, it can be easily removed.

Once you have placed the crystals, use the tweezers or a plastic stick to gently press them into place, ensuring they are securely attached. Allow the adhesive to set for 24-72 hours, following the instructions on the package.

Finally, clean up any residual or excess glue using acetone or rubbing alcohol. Test the cleaning solution on a few loose crystals first to ensure there are no adverse reactions. Avoid saturating the area, as it may dissolve the adhesive underneath the crystals.

Cleaning up excess glue

When it comes to cleaning up excess glue, there are a few methods you can use. The first is to use a dull knife or your fingernail to scrape away the glue. You can also try using a commercial cleaner or acetone to remove the glue. If you're using acetone, be careful as it can dissolve certain synthetic fibres. Another option is to soak the glue in cold water and then blot it with a wet sponge. Finally, you can place the shoe in the freezer for 30 minutes to harden the glue, and then gently peel it away.

Frequently asked questions